Kerry Krueger named to Nebraska Tourism Committee

LINCOLN, NEB. (February 24, 2006) - Kerry Krueger, owner of Heartland Elk Guest Ranch near Sparks, has been named to the nine-member Nebraska Tourism Advisory Committee by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development's Travel and Tourism Division.

Krueger and his wife, Lisa, opened their guest ranch in the Sandhills in 1997. The four log cabins there can accommodate up to a total of 45 guests. The Kruegers offer canoe or tube trips on the nearby Niobrara River, and guests can also take advantage of trail rides on horseback and enjoy viewing the Kreuger's herd of elk.

Krueger is on the Cherry County Tourism Board and the local Economic Development Board.

"I became involved in promoting tourism in the area when I saw the great affect it had on the local economy," Krueger said. "I'm pleased to have been selected to serve on the Nebraska Tourism Advisory Committee. The Tourism Division has been essential in helping us build our business, and they do a great job of promoting our state. I'm looking forward to helping others involved in the tourism industry throughout the state."

Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Richard Baier said Krueger's hands-on experience and enthusiasm will be a great asset to the Nebraska Tourism Advisory Committee.

"Kerry's daily experience with tourists and his Sandhills hospitality will help us take Nebraska tourism to a new level," Baier said